Perry Bamonte, The Cure Guitarist, Dies at 65

A Tribute to Perry Bamonte: The Quiet Genius Behind The Cure's Sound

The music world is mourning the loss of Perry Bamonte, the talented guitarist and keyboardist who played an integral role in shaping the sound of The Cure. Bamonte passed away at the age of 65 after a short illness at home over Christmas, as confirmed by the band in a statement on their official website.

The Cure described their former bandmate as "quiet, intense, intuitive, constant and hugely creative," highlighting his "warm hearted and vital part of the Cure story." His departure leaves a significant void in the music community, particularly among fans of the iconic alternative rock band.

A Journey with The Cure

Born Perry Archangelo Bamonte in London on September 3, 1960, his connection to The Cure began in 1984 through his younger brother, who worked as the band's tour manager. Initially joining as a guitar technician and personal assistant to Robert Smith, Bamonte gradually became more involved in the band's creative process.

His dedication and talent earned him a promotion to full-time member in 1990. During his tenure with The Cure, Bamonte contributed his musical expertise across numerous instruments, including guitar, six-string bass, and keyboards. His work can be heard on several of the band's most celebrated albums, including Wish, Wild Mood Swings, Bloodflowers, Acoustic Hits, and The Cure.

Over a span of 14 years, Bamonte performed in more than 400 shows with The Cure, showcasing his exceptional live performance skills and versatility as a musician. His ability to seamlessly transition between different instruments made him an invaluable asset to the band.

A Brief Departure and Triumphant Return

In 2005, Bamonte's journey with The Cure took a different turn when he left the band. However, this wasn't the end of his musical career. During this period, he explored new creative avenues by joining Love Amongst Ruin, a band featuring ex-members of Placebo and Julian Cope's band.

Despite the separation, Bamonte and Robert Smith maintained a positive relationship, which eventually led to his return to The Cure in 2022. His comeback was met with enthusiasm from both the band and fans alike. During this second stint, Bamonte performed in another 90 shows, with many considering these performances among the best in the band's history.

His final performance with The Cure was at the Show Of A Lost World concert in London on November 12, 2024, marking a poignant full-circle moment in his career with the band.

Legacy and Recognition

Bamonte's contributions to music were formally recognized in 2019 when he was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Cure. This prestigious honor cemented his place in music history and acknowledged his significant impact on the alternative rock genre.

As news of his passing spreads, tributes are pouring in from fans and fellow musicians alike. His unique style, both in composition and performance, has left an indelible mark on The Cure's discography and the broader music landscape.

Perry Bamonte's journey with The Cure exemplifies the transformative power of music and the deep connections formed through collaborative artistry. His memory will live on through the timeless music he helped create and the countless lives he touched through his art.

"Looking after the band from 1984 through 1989, he became a full time member of The Cure in 1990, playing guitar, six-string bass and keyboard on the Wish, Wild Mood Swings, Bloodflowers, Acoustic Hits and The Cure albums, as well as performing more than 400 shows over 14 years." - The Cure's official statement

Our thoughts and condolences go out to Perry Bamonte's family and loved ones during this difficult time. His legacy as a musician and his contributions to The Cure will not be forgotten.